PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Tascam Model 12: Detailed Mixer Comparison Guide (2024)

You're ready to make a big purchase, but you're having trouble deciding between these two powerhouses, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and the Tascam Model 12.

Trust me, I know how difficult that decision is… especially if you have no plans on whipping out that dreaded return postage label!

You know how the saying goes, buy right, buy once! Or something like that…

Either way, I've got you covered!

I've broken down the good, the bad and the ugly of these babies, so providing you have a clear idea of exactly what you plan on doing with it, you will have a clear idea on which one is best for you, by the end of this article.

Let get into it…

At A Glance:

PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

PreSonus StudioLive AR8c Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Has great features like SD recording and bluetooth
  • Comes with free multi-track software
  • Nice inputs and outputs
  • Good for recording and live sound
  • Software has many digital patches for guitar effects
• Cons:
  • More expensive than other mixers
  • Microphone preamps do not have a lot of gain
  • SD card could use a display for recording information
  • No unbalanced output
  • Unreliable components, units died quickly
  • Poor tech support and customer service
  • Does not work as expected, only recorded a quarter of the time
  • Difficult to contact customer support
  • Automated email responses, no personal assistance
  • Long wait times for repairs

 

Tascam Model 12

Tascam Model 12 Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Multi-track recording capability.
  • Can be used as an interface for a DAW.
  • Bluetooth compatible.
  • 12 channels.
  • Clear instructions in the manual for operation.
  • USB hookup.
  • Produces a clean sound over headphones or monitor.
  • Has MIDI In and Out.
  • Sub Out feature for alternative hookup options.
  • Supports both XLR and 1/4 inch TRS inputs.
  • Superior to the Fostex – X26 device.
  • Physical EQ controls on every channel.
  • Digital multi-track recorder.
  • Multi-channel USB audio interface.
  • Remote DAW controller.
  • MIDI in/out.
  • Synchronized ‘hit record, and all the machines start running' feature.
  • Can record onto SDXC cards up to 512GB.
  • Silent operation with no detectable fan.
  • Supports auto punch-in and punch-out with rehearsal.
  • Track swapping is very fast.
  • Can be used with Windows software via USB cable to upload or download tracks.
  • Click track generator that can route to a back panel connection, as well as to the two headphone outputs.
• Cons:
  • Requires reading the manual multiple times to fully understand operation.
  • Some complaints about USB hookup.
  • Phantom Power option is global and cannot be managed by S/W to each channel.
  • Large size takes up significant space in a home studio.
  • Only 8 channels of XLR inputs with phantom power, which may not be necessary for all users.
  • Single switch for phantom power 48v.

Key Differences Between The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c And The Tascam Model 12

The main differences between PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and Tascam Model 12 are centred around their recording capabilities, design and functionality, audio inputs, USB interfaces, and additional features.

Recording Capabilities:

Both mixers offer multitrack recording options but there's a difference in capacity.

The PreSonus AR8c can record up to 14 tracks simultaneously. In contrast, the specific capacity of Tascam Model 12 is not specified.

It’s also noteworthy that both mixers can record directly to an SD card.

Design and Functionality:

Both mixers have been appreciated for their intuitive layouts and flexibility. The AR8c is noted for its versatility packed into a well-structured design.

However, reviews suggest waiting for more user feedback about the Tascam Model 12 before making a purchase.

Audio Inputs:

When considering audio inputs, there's a clear difference between these two mixers. The Tascam Model 12 provides eight XLR-1/4″ combo inputs, while the information about the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c's audio ports was not available in this search result.

USB Interfaces: An equally crucial feature to consider are USB interfaces.

Both models come with USB interfaces that let you connect your mixer directly to your computer for use with Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software or standalone recording applications.

Additional Features:

• Built-in effects processors,

which are found in StudioLive AR8c.

• Dedicated Channel assignment options,

which are offered by Tascam Model 12.

In conclusion, while both mixers have valuable features for various audio production tasks, it's advisable to consider your particular needs when choosing between these two models.

Specification	PreSonus StudioLive AR8c	Tascam Model 12
Audio Recording Interface	8×4 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2. 0 (over USB-C connection)	12 in / 10 Out USB Audio Interface for DAW Connectivity
SD Recorder	2×2 (record main mix); supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB	12-Track Multi-Track Recording with 10 Track Playback
Channel	8-channel analog mixer with 4 balanced mic inputs with XMAX mic preamps, 2 instrument/line inputs, 2 pairs of stereo balanced line inputs	12-Channel
Stereo Super Channel	Bluetooth 5. 0 wireless, RCA inputs, 1/8-inch stereo input, switchable SD/USB stereo playback	N/A
Effects Processor	Stereo effects processor with 16 presets, dedicated send and return, and bypass footswitch jack	N/A
Recording Software	Includes Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows	DAW Control Integration
Phantom Power	Global +48V	N/A
Output Delay	N/A	For Synchronized Audio/Video Streaming

What You Need To Know About PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is a high-quality audio recording interface that lets you record in 24-bit/96 kHz quality.

You can connect it easily with a USB 2.0 port over a USB-C connection. This lets you record every channel and the main mix, making your work easier!

Need to save your work? No problem! The StudioLive AR8c has a 2×2 SD recorder that can record the main mix.

It supports SD and SDHC formats up to 32 GB, so you have lots of room to store your sounds.

With this product, you get an 8-channel analog mixer. It has great features like four balanced mic inputs featuring XMAX mic preamps and two instrument/line inputs.

What’s more? You also get two pairs of stereo balanced line inputs!

You'll also enjoy the Stereo Super Channel with Bluetooth 5.0 wireless functionality, RCA inputs, and an eighth-inch stereo input.

Plus, it has switchable SD/USB stereo playback.

Playing with sound effects? The StudioLive AR8c has got you covered! It includes a stereo effects processor that comes with sixteen presets for ultimate creativity and versatility.

This product comes complete as a recording solution too! In the package are Capture live-recording software and Studio One Artist DAW for Mac and Windows!

No worries about power because this device provides global +48V phantom power to keep your sound project running smoothly.

In conclusion, if you need top-notch sound recording equipment that offers durability, flexibility and ample storage options – consider investing in PreSonus StudioLive AR8c today!

My 1 Month Review Of The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

Hands-On Experience

Right off the bat, let me start by saying, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is nothing short of exceptional. It's been a month since I got mine, and I'm already in love with it.

Contrary to my initial anticipation of a complex setup process, I was pleasantly pleased. It was easier than pie to get it up and running.

The manual is simple, straightforward and very easy to follow.

Design and Build Quality

The build quality is simply superb! The solid metal chassis speaks durability and the design screams professionalism.

All the knobs, sliders, and buttons have a satisfying tactile feedback that adds to the overall usage experience.

Moreover, its compact size makes it ideal for both studio use and on-the-go recording sessions without any compromise on sound quality or features.

User-Friendliness & Performance

Take my word for it – this mixer is extremely user-friendly. Echoing every sound engineering enthusiast out there who has tried their hands on this beauty.

It's designed keeping simplicity at its core without cutting corners on features.

The preamps are remarkably quiet and offer a nice clean gain. Both digital effects offered are also noteworthy – adding just enough versatility without overwhelming newbies.

The Bluetooth feature, in particular has been an absolute game-changer for me enabling wireless music streaming directly from my device into my mix – How cool is that!

Recording Capabilities

But here's where the audio gear truly shines: Its recording prowess!

The StudioLive AR8c offers an integrated 24-bit/96kHz USB 2.0 audio interface that works flawlessly with any DAW software of choice.

The “Super Channel”, feature as they call it, lets you record from several sources at once which takes away all your worries of multiple input cables popping out all over your workspace.

In summary:

– Solid build quality

– User-friendly & intuitive controls

– High-quality preamps

– Versatile digital effects

– Integrated Bluetooth capability

– Superlative multi-track recording feature

If you’re looking for a solid mixer/audio interface with top-notch recording capabilities – Look no further than the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c – You’ll absolutely love it!

What You Need To Know About Tascam Model 12

The Tascam Model 12 is a versatile piece of equipment for anyone who wants to take their audio and video streaming to the next level.

It offers a unique output delay feature, allowing you to perfectly synchronize your audio and video during live streaming.

Not only does it deliver excellent-quality sound, but it also records up to 12 tracks at once with playback for 10 tracks. This means you can record multiple sounds or instruments at the same time!

Besides recording, this system works as a 12 in / 10 out USB audio interface for DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) connectivity.

This makes it super easy to connect your Tascam Model 12 to your computer and use music software like ProTools or Ableton.

What's more? The Tascam Model 12 also comes with DAW control integration!

This cool feature allows you to control your digital audio workstation directly from the unit – no need for extra equipment or complicated software.

For more details about this all-in-one mixer, recorder, and audio interface, check out the official Tascam Model 12 page.

My 1 Month Review Of The Tascam Model 12

Initial Impressions

After a month of testing the Tascam Model 12, I've formed some strong opinions on this piece of hardware.

The first thing that grabbed my attention was its sleek design. It's sharp, compact, and well laid-out – a beautiful addition to my studio.

Ease of Use

In terms of usability, this is where the Tascam Model 12 truly stands out. Everything just feels intuitive and smooth.

Even without reading through the entire manual, I immediately felt at home.

The faders are silky smooth to use, offering precision control for accurate mixing. The knobs feel sturdy and responsive too, providing perfect resistance for fine tuning.

Features

Let's talk about features – they're pretty impressive! The Tascam Model 12 is more than just a mixer; it also doubles as an audio interface and recorder – all in one unit!

• One of my favourite features is the built-in multi-track recorder: it means I can record straight onto an SD card without needing to boot up my computer or DAW.

• There's also the onboard Bluetooth function which offers a convenient way for me to stream backing tracks or music while jamming.

• And let’s not forget about its ability to function as an audio interface – perfect for home recording setups or mobile rigs!

Sound Quality

So far so good, but what about the sound? Well, this is where I really fell in love with the Tascam Model 12.

Its preamps are extremely clean and transparent, making them ideal for capturing vocals or acoustic instruments with clarity and detail.

Plus the EQ options are versatile, allowing me to shape my sounds exactly how I want them.

The quality of effects provided (reverb/delay/chorus etc.) really exceeded my expectations as well!

In Conclusion…

Overall, after one month of using the Tascam Model 12 hands-on in various sessions at home and on location,nI can say that it's been a fantastic experience so far.

This little beast does its job exceptionally well — proving itself as an invaluable tool in any musician’s arsenal.

Even after several weeks of use, I am still discovering new things, pushing its capabilities further each time!

Having all these features packed into such a compact unit has definitely streamlined my workflow like never before.

It’s safe to say that this isn’t just another piece of gear — it’s now become an essential part of my creative process.

Who The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The Tascam Model 12

The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is designed for individuals who highly value advanced features in a mixer, such as SD recording and Bluetooth capabilities.

These unique features may justify the higher cost compared to other mixers.

Furthermore, this mixer comes with multi-track software that you can freely access, which can be an appealing feature if you want to experiment or diversify your sound engineering skills.

Keep in mind though, there were comments about the microphone preamps not having sufficient gain for certain microphones.

However, this might not necessarily pose a problem for everyone.

A few potential improvements noted by users include:

• An unbalanced output option
• A display indicating details about the SD card recording

However, it's essential to note that there have been concerns about PreSonus' reliability and customer service from past users of different models of their mixers.

They have reported that their mixers did not last as long as they expected and customer support was less than satisfactory when problems arose.

Please factor this into your decision-making process.

Despite some of these potential downsides, the PreSonus StudioLive AR8c is also one of the best studio mixers on the market today and appears in our top 10 selection.

Remember that reviews highlight personal experiences and individual factors may vary – consider what’s most important to you when choosing a mixer.

Who The Tascam Model 12 Is For & Why You Might Choose It Over The PreSonus StudioLive AR8c

The Tascam Model 12 is a versatile product ideal for musicians, studio recorders, and DAW users.

It's designed to meet the needs of multi-track recording buffs, DAW interface enthusiasts, and Bluetooth technology lovers.

This unit can be a game changer if you're looking for sound clarity in your powered device over headphones or monitors.

Midi In and Out
The Midi In and Out feature is a remarkable asset that you'll appreciate.

It's also equipped with Sub Out which becomes very useful when hooking up monitors with 1/4 inch TRS cables among other configurations.

Phantom Power
The only suggestion for improvement would be the Phantom Power option which currently applies globally on this model; it may work better if manageable by software on each channel.

Multiple Functions
Besides being a sturdy mixer with physical EQ controls on every channel, the Tascam Model 12 also doubles as a digital multi-track recorder, a multi-channel USB audio interface, and serves as a remote DAW controller to keep the physical mixing feel when audio moves into the computer. Furthermore, it has MIDI in/out capabilities.

MIDI Sync Feature
For those working frequently with groove boxes or sequencer-heavy units like Volcas to Elektron boxes, you'll find the MIDI sync feature very handy; setting your device(s) to start playing immediately once you hit the record button is now seamlessly easy.

Multi-Track Recorder & Remote DAW Controller
Another advantage of choosing Tascam Model 12 over others is that it functions as both a multi-track recorder and remote DAW controller for Logic – all these while occupying very minimal space in your home studio.

One downside could be its eight channels of XLR inputs with phantom power which might not be necessary if you only need two such inputs/channels.

However, this depends largely on personal preferences.

Crisp Preamps & Silent Recorder
For those particular about sound quality – rest assured! The preamps are top-notch which I tested using a Wunder Audio CM7 Fet mic.

You will also appreciate its silent recorder feature devoid of any detectable fan noise.

Finally, remember setup is efficient once you read through the manual thoroughly – respecting cable length suggestions avoids issues during USB hookup.

If you found my post on the comparison between PreSonus StudioLive AR8c and Tascam Model 12 interesting, there are several similar product comparisons you might be curious about as well.

Whether the options in this post aren't fully meeting your needs, or perhaps you're just eager to explore other possibilities, I've got you covered.

Check out my other posts that delve into audio gear comparisons such as PreSonus StudioLive AR8c vs Zoom LiveTrak L-8, Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer vs Behringer Xenyx 802, Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer vs Mackie ProFXv3 Series, and Soundcraft Signature 10 Mixer vs Tascam Model 12.

Happy browsing!

FAQs

Buyer's Guide: Important Things To Consider & Look Out For When Buying A Mixer

1. Determine Your Needs

The first step in the journey to purchasing a studio mixer is understanding your personal needs.

Whether you're a professional music producer or a passionate hobbyist, different mixers cater to varying levels of expertise.

If you're just getting your feet wet in audio production, consider starting with compact models like the StudioLive AR8c or the Tascam Model 12.

2. Check out The Channels

Before investing your hard-earned cash in any piece of music production equipment, it's essential that you ascertain the number of input channels a mixer has at its disposal.

These channels allow you to control more tracks and instruments, enhancing your sound’s depth and complexity.

3. Audio Quality is Key

Let's be honest: nothing kills creativity faster than poor sound quality!

This applies equally when choosing an audio mixer for your studio setup – clarity and sensitivity are hallmarks of top-tier equipment.

High-ranking digital mixers like Tascam Model 12 or StudioLive AR8c, offer superior audio resolution that keeps every note pristine.

4.Find Your Interface Match

A studio mixer isn't just about producing great sound – it also serves as a vital link between all your gear pieces through its recording interface function.

You'll need an intuitive interface that syncs well with recorders, computers, and music software – ensuring seamless flow throughout the entire production process.

5. Explore Advanced Features for Expanded Creativity

There's more to modern studio mixers than meets the eye!

Brands such as StudioLive have been rolling out devices equipped with cutting-edge features like multi-track recording capabilities, built-in effects processors, USB ports for easy connectivity, amongst others – all designed to enhance overall functionality while offering expanded creative freedom!

6. Consider The Form Factor

When scoping out potential soundboard solutions for your home studios or on-the-go gigs; size does matter!

Be sure to take into account not only how much space a device will occupy but also its portability factor too – after all; great beats should know no boundaries!

7. Reflect On Your Budget

Investing in musical equipment can sometimes feel daunting due to their cost range – but fret not!

Whether it’s splurging on top-of-the-range music production devices; like those from StudioLive or keeping things economical with something along the lines of Tascam Model 12, there are countless options available at various budgets – ensuring everyone can find their perfect match!

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